Updating a Classic Sofa?

Q: A year ago my parents gave me a beautiful sofa. As you can see it has incredible wood carved details, pretty blue velveteen cushions and a lovely rounded back. It's incredibly comfortable, unfortunately though, it doesn't match our aesthetic. In fact, friends often say after surveying our romantic-yet-modern Brooklyn apartment, "where did this come from, it feels out of place..."

Sent by Constance

...We have tried to make it mesh by adding complimentary pillows, but it still feels awkwardly out of sync. Now we want to sell it but we have no idea if it's even worth a dime or how to sell something seemingly valuable. Sometimes I imagine it recovered in a deep royal blue or purple, even done in black it could be incredible. Does the Apartment Therapy community have any suggestions for updating our sofa? Sincerely, Constance

Editor: This is a classic piece — new upholstery could completely change it's appearance. Did you think about using a non-traditional material for upholstery? neoprene? perforated racing leather? French terry? Or maybe a unique color or pattern is all you need — Marimekko? vintage men's suiting? sail cloth?